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Sleep and breathing

Snoring is common. Obstructive sleep apnoea is different: breathing repeatedly pauses in sleep. These pages explain the difference and when a sleep assessment is worth discussing.

Choose a topic for symptoms, home care, and warning signs. None of these pages replaces an examination.

Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

Snoring happens when airflow makes tissues in the upper airway vibrate during sleep. Loud frequent snoring with pauses in breathing, gasping, or daytime sleepiness may indicate obs

Snoring

Snoring is sound from upper-airway vibration during sleep. Loud frequent snoring may be associated with sleep apnoea.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

OSA occurs when the upper airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep and can affect sleep quality and daytime alertness.